Multidimensional Nanostructure Engineering in Practical Lithium-sulfur Batteries

Lithium-sulfur batteries are regarded as promising next-generation energy storage systems owing to their ultrahigh theoretical energy density. However, their practical deployment is severely hindered by sluggish sulfur redox kinetics, severe polysulfide shuttling, and inefficient electron/ion transport. In recent years, multidimensional nanostructure engineering has emerged as an effective strategy to address these challenges by integrating adsorption, catalysis, and transport functions within cathode architectures. This review systematically summarizes representative cathode designs spanning zero-dimensional to three-dimensional materials, and categorizes recent advances into three multidimensional strategies: intra-dimensional synergy, inter-dimensional coupling, and dimensional transformation. We highlight how rational coordination of materials across different dimensionalities enables sustained catalytic activity, regulated lithium sulfide deposition, and enhanced mass transport in thick electrodes. Finally, remaining challenges and future opportunities are discussed, with an emphasis on bridging nanoscale functional design with practical battery performance.